Final answer:
Pharmacists in a Class C pharmacy within an institution with more than 101 beds must hold a Doctorate in Pharmacy, be state-licensed, and adhere to state and federal regulations. They play critical roles in dispensing medications, consulting on drug therapy, and patient education. The role demands thorough knowledge in chemistry and biology for effective management of medication therapies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The specific requirements for a pharmacist working in a Class C pharmacy, which generally relates to an institutional or hospital pharmacy, in an institution with 101 beds or more may vary depending on the state pharmacy laws and institutional regulations. However, typically, a pharmacist in such settings must have a Doctorate in Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, a license to practice pharmacy in the state where the institution is located, and must comply with all state and federal laws pertaining to the practice of pharmacy in a hospital or institutional setting.
As part of the career focus in these settings, pharmacists are responsible for dispensing prescribed drugs, advising physicians on drug selection, dosage, and potential drug interactions, as well as educating patients on the correct use of their medications. Due to the intricate nature of medication management in a large institution, the pharmacist may also be involved in the oversight of pharmacy technicians, medication safety programs, and may contribute to clinical decision-making and patient care teams.
The detailed knowledge of chemistry and biology is essential for understanding drug effects on the body, which underscores the importance of the extensive education in a specialty pharmacy school that aspiring pharmacists must undertake. In a hospital setting, the role of the pharmacist is critical to ensuring optimal medication therapy outcomes and the safe and effective use of medications.